The PGA Tour is making its way to Pebble Beach, a stunning course that may seem straightforward at first glance. However, it can quickly expose players’ weaknesses. While this course is shorter compared to modern standards, it offers little forgiveness. With small greens and challenging coastal conditions, players must strike a balance between aggression and control.
Being able to hit the ball far is great, but success hinges on putting. Good tee-to-green play sets up opportunities, but it’s the putting that ultimately determines the ranking.
For bets this week, consider both “To Win” and “To Win Without Scottie Scheffler.” Personally, I’d stick with the full “To Win” bets, as excluding Scheffler might limit your potential payouts. This week, I’m leaning toward “Top 20” wagers. I’ll focus on players who have the profile to capitalize on their chances.
Here are some of the top players I’m eyeing:
Jake Knapp: Top 20 (+114)
Knapp is a player full of potential. When he finds his rhythm, he can go low, perhaps even a bogey-free 64. He excels off the tee and in driving distance, and he’s also strong in putting and birdie-making. Despite an average performance at Pebble last year, Knapp’s recent form is promising. His upside makes him a solid Top 20 bet.
Pierceson Coody: Top 20 (+152)
Coody’s stats paint a strong picture. He’s not only a long hitter but also ranks high in important categories like birdie rate. His putting on Poa annua grass is another advantage. With a Top 2 finish at Torrey recently, Coody seems primed for a solid showing at Pebble.
Fantasy Considerations
For Daily Fantasy players, Chris Gotterup ($9,000) is an appealing pick. He’s shown he can carry a lineup with his impressive recent wins but might struggle with putting. On the other hand, Maverick McNealy ($8,800) has a strong record at Pebble, excelling in putting. However, his average driving could limit his overall win potential, making him a better fantasy choice than a betting option.
Who to Avoid
Michael Thorbjornsen ($8,600) has caught attention with recent finishes, but his inconsistency might be a risk at Pebble. His putting issues could be costly on this tough course, where precision is key.
In summary, Pebble Beach demands a mix of skills, and the right strategies can pay off significantly. Golfers must not only hit long but also navigate tricky greens effectively. Understanding who to bet on and who to fade can improve your chances this week.
For further insights, you can check out DraftKings Sportsbook.
